Title: Only Lazy Americans E-Bike

Genre: Personal Journey / Social Documentary / Health / Travel Adventure / Cycling and E-biking

Logline: When a Dutchman is struck by a mysterious neurological illness that leaves him nearly bedridden, doctors tell him the only path to recovery is exercise. He buys an e-bike—and sets out on a 4,685-mile solo ride across America. Along the way, he meets critics, celebrates advocates, and discovers how a controversial technology is transforming lives and communities.

Format: 1 x 60.

Summary: After contracting a debilitating infection in South Africa, Gregory Maassen was left with severe neuropathy and little hope of recovery. Doctors at Johns Hopkins advised him that only exercise could regenerate damaged nerves. His solution: an e-bike.

In Only Lazy Americans E-Bike, Gregory takes audiences on an extraordinary cross-country journey from Washington, DC, to San Francisco along the historic Lincoln Highway. Battling storms, mud, fallen trees, and the weight of a 416-pound rig with cinema equipment, he pedals day after day—burning up to 4,000 calories—on a mission to prove that e-bikes are far more than “toys for fat, lazy Americans.”

The film weaves the rider’s personal recovery with broader debates about e-bikes: their critics in environmental and urban planning circles, their role in equity and accessibility, and their impact on veterans, families, and seniors. From firefighters commemorating 9/11 to wounded warriors rebuilding their lives at the Travis Mills Foundation, the stories reveal how e-bikes open doors to freedom, health, and community.

Along the way, Gregory raises $178,000 for neuropathy research, becomes an American citizen, and sparks a national conversation about technology, resilience, and belonging.

Audience: The film’s audience includes viewers 25+ with interests in personal journeys, technology, traveling, resilience, health, and community.

Specs: H.265 – 4096x2160 DCI, 29.97, Rec.709, DaVinci YRGB.

Schedule: Click here for a detailed production schedule.

Contact: Gregory Maassen via Linkedin